Meningitis During Convalescence from Varicella.

Abstract

Meningeal reactions have been frequently reported as occurring in varicella; but the case reported here is believed to be the first case recorded in which a fatal meningitis occurred in convalescence from varicella. The patient was a young man, aged 18, who had apparently a mild attack of varicella. While convalescing from this attack, he developed symptoms of a severe meningitis, with convulsions. Death occurred on the fifth day. The autopsy showed a diffuse purulent leptomeningitis with involvement of the cortex. Tuberculosis was excluded by the bacteriological examination and by the inoculation of guinea pigs, both of which were negative.